Greenears
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- Dec 2, 2014
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Are 16-bit-max DACs still even a thing in the PC world? Or do you mean one that actually gets S/N actually better than 16bits?
I don't know I have not done a survey. Since all major DACs are 1 bit nowadays, the parameter is known as ENOB (Effective Number of Bits). "16 bit DACs" have ENOB 15-15.5 and "24-bit" have ENOB 20-21 bits.
High end laptops usually come with Realtek HD Audio which is ENOB of around 20 bit. It is well regarded by many online (I also have one). I can't speak for low end or used laptops. I don't think this is a big deal either way, but since the cost is very low I don't see why not. Being able to play a 24 bit file and having a 24-bit DAC are two different things, since you can play a 24 bit file on 16 just by dropping the extra bits.